3 Things Entrepreneurs Can Learn From Walt Disney

“If you can dream it, you can do it.”

As the creator of Mickey Mouse and founder of Disneyland, one of the most inspiring entrepreneurs in the world of animation and entertainment is none other than Walt Disney. Coming from humble beginnings, Walt Disney was not born a success, instead he worked hard to create his own success.

Almost 60 years after Disneyland first opened its gates in July 1955, the “Happiest Place on Earth” still attracts millions of visitors per year and the magical world of animation created by Disney still thrives and inspires so many people, both young and old, today.

Here are three things we can learn from one of the most successful entrepreneurs of all time — Walt Disney.

Do What You Love

Walt Disney loved drawing. In fact, he loved it so much he was willing to work miscellaneous jobs just to fund his art. Disney shows us that it is important to work hard to fuel your passions and when you are able to turn your passion into a full-time career, there’s no doubt you will wake up everyday and be satisfied because you are doing what you love. As an aspiring entrepreneur you should never put your ambitions on the back-burner.

“The way to get started is to quit talking and begin doing.” — Walt Disney

Create an Experience

Disney parks are built on not only developing a great brand, but a great experience. Every Disney park is a magical experience where families and Disney fans can see the effort and attention to detail in each and every ride, show, restaurant and staff engagement.

The development of an experience in every interaction, including services and customer support, sets the Disney brand apart and shows us that a good brand thrives on generating positive feelings from customers. For entrepreneurs it’s important to add personal touches whenever possible and strive to make every customer feel special.

“Disneyland is a work of love. We didn’t go into Disneyland just with the idea of making money.” - Walt Disney

Don’t Stop After Your First Success

Disney never settled after an accomplishment. Instead, he would immediately begin working on another project — whether that was a new film, a new character, or making improvements to current characters. For example, after completing his legendary film “Snow White and the Seven Dwarves”, he immediately began working on other feature films, such as “Bambi” and “Fantasia”, that would become just as successful.

Even after creating his most popular character Mickey Mouse, Disney knew it was important to create additional characters and keep redesigning his drawings to improve them every time. Disney is a prime example that continuous improvement leads to success and that entrepreneurs should never stop dreaming and creating.

“All our dreams can come true, if we have the courage to pursue them.” — Walt Disney

Walt Disney continues to inspire millions of people today as his legacy still carries on. There are many things entrepreneurs can learn from Disney, and his successes have become a model for creating the ultimate brand experience today.

This blog is by Agu De Marco, Co-Founder of Wideo, a DIY animated video production platform.

Looking for a community contributor for technology, startup or entrepreneur related stories? DM me on Twitter @agudemarco or email agu@wideo.co